United Steel Workers of Montreal
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2004 |
| Defunct | 2011 |
| Headquarters | Montreal , Canada |
| Products | Music albums |
United Steel Workers of Montreal (USWM) was a six-member alternative country ensemble originating from downtown Montreal, Quebec. The group consisted of Gern F (vocals/acoustic guitar), Felicity Hamer (vocals/accordion), Sean "Gus" Beauchamp (vocals/acoustic guitar), Matt Watson (electric guitar), Flipper Frumignac (bass), and Dylan Perron (banjo/mandolin). Their sound merged elements of punk rock, bluegrass, and country music, playing a significant role in shaping Montreal's "citygrass" alternative country movement.
History
Initially formed as a busking group performing regularly at Montreal's Lucien-L'Allier metro station, USWM transitioned into a formal band after approximately seven to eight months by securing rehearsal space and beginning studio recordings. Their first album, Broken Trucks and Bottles (released April 2005), included contributions from Sean Moore on banjo, mandolin, and guitar. Moore soon departed, with Kevin McNeilly stepping in; session musician Roger Dawson also became involved.
In 2007, the band released Kerosene and Coal. That same year, a readers' poll by Montreal Mirror placed them as the third best act in Montreal, trailing only behind Arcade Fire and Team Canada. Later in 2007, Dawson exited and was succeeded by bassist Eddie Blake.
USWM embarked on extensive tours throughout Canada, the United States, and Europe, appearing at events such as the 2007 Canada Music Week, 2008 SXSW, and Ottawa Bluesfest. Their tracks were featured on CBC Radio 3. Between touring commitments, they remained active within Montreal's live music circuit. The band ultimately dissolved at the close of 2011.
Discography
- 2005 Broken Trucks and Bottles
- 2007 Kerosene and Coal
- 2009 Three on the Tree